Behind the Seams: Stranger Things (Broadway)

In this video, go behind the scenes of Broadway’s ‘Stranger Things: The First Shadow’ as award-winning costume designer Brigitte Reiffenstuel breaks down the visual world of the highly anticipated stage prequel. Set in 1959 Hawkins, Indiana, the show explores the origins of Henry Creel (Vecna) and features younger versions of familiar characters like Joyce, Hopper, Bob, Karen, and Ted. Brigitte reveals how the costumes reflect a different era while still honoring the spirit of the Netflix series. With over 500 costumes in the production, Brigitte explains the creative and technical challenges of designing for the stage—where durability is key for a show that runs eight times a week. She shares how character-specific choices, like Joyce Maldonado’s tomboyish corduroy and stripes or Henry’s mother-selected schoolwear, help tell each story. She walks us through key pieces like Patty’s vibrant yellow coat and the iconic hazmat suits, designed with “the whitest white you can find without it being fluorescent.” Lighting plays a crucial role in these choices, and Brigitte highlights her close collaboration with lighting designer Jon Clark to ensure every costume reads from the stage to the very last row.